Signs Your Old AC Unit May Need Replacement

How to Know if the Air Conditioner May Need Replacing

As the summer approaches, having functioning air conditioning will become more and more essential. That means it’s important to be alert for signs that the air conditioner may need replacement. Obviously, if it’s nearing the end of its life expectancy or needs frequent repairs, it’s time for a new air conditioner, but there are other signs that indicate an AC replacement could be needed.

The House Isn’t Getting Cool Enough

If warm air is coming out of the air conditioning system’s vents or there is weak airflow, something is likely going on with the air conditioner. Many things could be the underlying issue behind this discomfort. A loss of cooling could point to problems like a refrigerant leak, a dirty evaporator coil, a malfunctioning thermostat, an improperly sized AC unit, an old unit, and more. 

Some of these issues can be solved with AC repair or maintenance, while others may require an air conditioner replacement. If there’s an issue with the comfort or temperature in the house, a professional can assess the situation and determine the best solution to restore comfort. 

Rising Energy Costs

If energy bills have risen unexpectedly when the home’s energy usage has remained the same, it can indicate that the air conditioner is operating inefficiently. There are also various possible reasons for the loss of efficiency, such as AC maintenance being neglected, an old air conditioner, or something malfunctioning and causing the unit to work harder.

As air conditioners age, they lose efficiency, meaning they must work harder to maintain the temperature and cost more to operate. If this is the cause of inefficiency, it may be time for air conditioning replacement. The higher cooling costs could also point to the need for air conditioner repair or maintenance. 

Strange Sounds or Smells 

Unusual sounds and smells coming from an AC unit can be other signs of a problem with the air conditioner. These can also indicate that air conditioning repair, maintenance, or replacement is needed, and a technician should be called to inspect it. A lingering burning smell, for example, should be addressed by a professional quickly since it can mean that there is an overheated motor or electrical damage that can lead to a fire. A gasoline smell or a smell similar to car engine exhaust fumes can indicate an AC refrigerant leak, while a musty odor could be due to issues like clogged condensate lines or an improperly sized AC unit.

When air conditioners make strange noises during operation, such as banging, clicking, squealing, screeching, buzzing, hissing, and more, it also indicates the need for service. Some causes of the sounds and smells may only require repair or maintenance, while others could require replacing the AC unit. A technician can inspect the system to determine the reason for the sound or smell and the best solution to fix it.  

About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions

A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions is a family-owned and operated company serving the Austin area. They provide flat-rate pricing, financing, and fast friendly service. Call them for air conditioning installation and replacement in Austin, TX. 

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